Teens given bravery medals for helping NSW shark attack victim

Three teen surfers who tried to save their stricken mate after he was fatally attacked by a three-metre tiger shark on the NSW mid-north coast have been awarded bravery medals.

Lindsy Isaac-Davies, Shayden Schrader and Kurtis Gillan - all teenagers at the time of the attack - are among those recognised in the first round of the 2015 Australian Bravery Awards announced by Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove on Monday.

Their friend, 19-year-old Zac Young, was attacked by the shark at Campbells Beach, north of Coffs Harbour, in November 2013.

All four were surfing about 200 metres off shore, when the shark struck, biting him on the legs.

The trio rushed to Zac's aid despite not knowing if the shark was still there or if it would strike again.

"Determined not to leave their friend, and as the injured boy continued to lose a lot of blood and slip into unconsciousness ... the other boys began to paddle towards the beach," the office of the Governor-General said.

"Despite being buffeted by large waves they managed to return their friend to the shore."